In all of DC's glorious history, I'd have to say that goalkeeping is historically their weakest position. I don't think it gets any weres near better than Nick Rimando (2002-2003).
In order: Garlick Presthus Simpson Ammann Perkins Causey Warren Baumstark Marcoullier Rimando Can you tell I hope we get a new keeper this off-season...
I vote Rimando. Yes, Garlick and Presthus and Simpson all had their moments. And yes, Rimando is just totally owned by Preki and likes to wave at crosses. But I think none of the previous champions depended upon the GK to make some stupendous plays now and then for us to advance. Can anyone with a better memory than mine point to a game ala the Revs Conference Final where one of those other GKs made as much of a difference as Rimando did in that match? I think if you'd put any of those other keepers in that game at the end (in their prime), it's the Revs going to the finals and not us.
My votes are for Garlick, Mark Simpson, Nick in that order. Can anyone remember a better single game performance by a DC keeper than Garlick's in the second leg of the Interamerican Cup? He was just a wall. I would put that up against Meola's MLS Cup 2000 any day--better than Rimando (Nick-three goals to Scott-zero goals allowed).
I can't believe I left out Garlick! I was thinking of him the whole time- and I just spaced! I think I deserve the harshest piunishment that revelation can dish out....
Jesus! Ya scared me for a second with that hot dog comment. Has anyone actually finished one of those yet and lived? Just askin.
Does anyone know how to get in contact with one of the most important United players, Erik Imler ... he did build the trophy case
I actually voted for Rimando, even though I said Dema. I think a case can be made for any of the keepers in Jose's post. But Nicky was our best player 2 seasons ago (partly because that was one of our weakest teams) and no other keeper has deserved that distinction. I would be willing to upgrade to Keller.